The designer, Veronica Etro, took inspiration from the Tuareg, Navajo, Berber and Ndebele tribes.

The kaleidoscopic mix of ethnic print and pattern worked to great effect in the all-white environs of the vast, white hall on the outskirts of the city, normally used as an ice-rink, where the show was staged.

Silk maxi-dresses, tethered by collars and torques in hammered metal, were printed with dazzling florals and chevrons. The use of concertina-pleats gave added volume to long, flowing, tunics and ankle-length skirts.

Jumpsuits and peasant-style dresses, fastened with a scarf-tie at the neck, came in vivid paisley, tattoo and zig-zag motifs, worn with matching 'leg-warmer boots', beaded sandals, or multi-coloured wedge-shoes.

Framed 'foulard' prints, in earth tones punctuated with turquoise and orange, were used for loose jackets and coats, with blouses and trousers in spice tones.

Etro, founded in Milan by the designer's father, Gimmo, more than 40 years ago, has a wide celebrity following and is particularly favoured by the American First Lady, Michele Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston and Kate Hudson.

Milan Fashion Week continued tonight (Friday) with the spring/summer 2011 collection by Donatella Versace for Versace. Other major brands showing here over the next three days include Giorgio Armani, Roberto Cavalli, Emilio Pucci, Missoni, MaxMara, and Dolce & Gabbana.